Encrypt your files and emails::

The first issue I'll address is personal computer security. This is not too difficult to achieve with the wealth of freeware and shareware programs available. I personally use PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) and this is available at www.pgpi.com.

Once PGP is set up you can use it to encrypt emails and text files either stored locally or sent as attachments. Of course the recipient has to be using PGP to be able to decode the files or email as you use their public key to encrypt the files. Once received the recipient then uses his (or her) secure key to decode the message or file.

Beware of email attachments::

Another important issue is email. If you receive an email from an unknown source then delete it straight away. I don't care how much wealth, good times or whatever it promises you DELETE THAT MAIL IMMEDIATELY. Snooper programs can be buried inside emails and allow hackers TOTAL CONTROL over your PC. One of these snooper programs was recently tested in my section and we managed to send a mail to the boss telling him he was a w**ker but it came from his secretary. She had no idea we'd done it but it was to prove a point to the
boss. IT WORKED.

Being anonymous on the net

Switch off Cookies::

Make sure "Accept Cookies" is switched off in your internet browser settings. These cookies are little files with details of your surfing habits and generally come from sites without you knowing. If you have any on your machine they are usually in a directory under windows called, strangely enough, "cookies".

Empty your Temparary Internet Files directory EVERY TIME you log off the internet. This also shows any would be snoop where you've been. Some browsers can be set to automatically empty this when they close. Check your settings and see.

 

Switch off sharing::

Unless you share your files or printers on a home or small company network there should be no reason to have "File and Printer Sharing" setup on your PC. If it is then SWITCH IT OFF. Hackers can exploit this to look into your machine and gain control of it.

Thank you for your patience as this page is developed Comments or Questions can be sent to.
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